Research Associate – Executive Search

Research Associate – Executive SearchLondon | Hybrid WorkingAn established, highly respected executive search and recruitment consultancy is looking to hire a Research Associate to join its Senior Finance practice.This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build a long-term career in executive search, working alongside experienced consultants on senior finance and corporate leadership appointments across FTSE-listed businesses, private equity-backed companies and high-growth organisations. The firm has a long-standing reputation in the market, an impressive employee retention record and a genuine commitment to developing researchers into consultants.The RoleAs a Research Associate, you’ll be involved in the full lifecycle of executive search assignments, including:Market mapping and identifying senior talent across target organisationsHeadhunting and engaging passive candidatesConducting candidate screening interviews and assessmentsSupporting both retained and contingent search assignmentsProducing candidate reports, market insights and shortlist documentationCoordinating interview processes and maintaining candidate relationshipsWorking closely with experienced consultants throughout each assignmentDeveloping expertise within finance, corporate development and broader commercial markets.We’re interested in individuals who are:Naturally curious and commercially mindedExcellent communicators who enjoy speaking with senior professionalsHighly organised with exceptional attention to detailResilient, proactive and able to manage multiple prioritiesInterested in business, corporate finance and leadership marketsMotivated by long-term progression into executive search consulting.Training & ProgressionUnlike many larger firms, researchers are given exposure to every stage of the search process, including:Client meetings and search briefingsCandidate interviews and assessmentsShortlist presentationsSearch strategy discussionsOffer management and negotiationsThere is a clearly defined career path from Research Associate → Associate Consultant → Consultant, with increasing ownership of retained assignments and client relationships.CultureThe business prides itself on a collaborative, team-first environment where researchers work directly alongside experienced consultants and partners. New joiners receive extensive mentoring, their opinions are valued from day one, and success is recognised through a supportive, meritocratic culture with regular social events and excellent retention.Researcher Briefing Guide - Commerce & Industry.pdfIdeal BackgroundExceptional graduates with strong commercial awareness and a genuine interest in executive search.If you’re looking to join a business where you’ll receive genuine training, work on high-profile search assignments and have a clear pathway into consulting, this is an outstanding opportunity.